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project // gingerbread hand warmers

The weather outside is frightful. But only recently. Just a few days ago we had super warm weather around here, and we were all saying that it just didn't feel like December. It does now.

Which is good timing for this post on making your own hand warmers!

I've wanted to make gingerbread hand warmers for years. Like, since just after I made these other hand warmers. And now here I finally am with a pattern and tutorial.

One thing that is really important here. The easiest way to heat something like this is in the microwave. But you have to be really, really careful. Use wool or wool blend felt (NOT acrylic), and keep an eye on them as they heat. Promise?

To make a set of hand warmers, cut out four gingerbread men. Embroider details on two of them.

Stitch around the outside with running stitch, leaving an opening for filling. Leave the thread attached so you can sew them closed with the same piece.

Fill the gingerbread men with rice, then stitch the openings closed. Hide the knot between the layers of felt.

Squee! Aren't they adorable? But even though they are finished, they aren't quite ready. Because what's better than a gingerbread cookie? A warm gingerbread cookie!

Pop these little guys in the microwave to warm them up.

Heat for 10-15 seconds, then check them and add time as needed. I found that 30 seconds was perfect, but all microwaves are different. If you're giving these as a gift, be sure to let the recipient know how to heat them.

I've found that they hold warmth for at least 20 minutes, which isn't too bad. It's perfect for a short walk outside, while riding in the car and waiting for it to fully warm up inside, or if your house is just a little on the cool side, like mine is!

They also make wonderful little bean bags. You could use them as a pincushion, but that seems cruel. Or maybe as a paper weight?

However you use them or gift them, I hope they make your season sweeter!

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unless otherwise noted, all content is copyright 2004-2015 mollie johanson, and should be kept for personal and cottage-industry use only. if you have questions or would like to publish any of my work, please ask first!